It said that TRE has recognised that last Thursday's post "meant or was understood to mean" that Mr Lee had "secured or was instrumental in securing" Madam Ho's appointment.

"We admit and acknowledge that this allegation is false and completely without foundation."

The post was taken down on Sunday.The apology ends with Mr Wan reminding TRE readers and contributors to refrain from intentionally using language that is libellous, defamatory, obscene, abusive or discriminatory.

He also advised TRE readers against making comments about Madam Ho with regard to her appointment in Temasek Holdings. "Any such allegations put up by anyone on TRE will be deleted," he added.

Mr Wan is one of five editors running TRE, and is the only one based here. He appeared for the first time in public at a forum last Wednesday.

The TRE's editorial team yesterday posted an article entitled, "Let's all chip in to help make TRE truly a community site for Singaporeans".

The article reminded readers that TRE is not a "no holds barred" website, adding: "Pay particular attention to making comments that may be defamatory to others. Such comments will also be deleted if our moderators come across them."